As the countdown to the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) intensifies, Namibia’s Captain, Peter Shalulile highlighted the crucial role tonight’s friendly against Ghana plays, in preparing the Tafel Lager Brave Warriors for the upcoming challenge.
Scheduled at the Baba Yara Stadium in Kumasi tonight at 20h00, this encounter holds significant weight for the team.
Shalulile said “It sets the tone for what’s ahead in the tournament. Meeting our objectives here will set us on the right path for AFCON,”
Looking back at past encounters between Namibia and Ghana, the victory in 2019 where the Brave Warriors secured a 1-0 win adds anticipation to this clash.
Vice-Captain Ananias Gebhardt echoed Shalulile’s sentiments, emphasizing the need to face formidable football nations like Ghana.
“This test against Ghana is crucial. Competing against football giants like Ghana is precisely the challenge we need to prepare for the tournament,” Gebhardt stated.
Coach Collin Benjamin, who completed the squad selection process on the 3rd January 2024, confronts a daunting task in selecting tonight’s lineup; Loydt Kazapua, Kamaijanda Ndisiro, and Edward Maova stand ready in the goalkeeping department.
In defense, the likes of Ananias Gebhardt, Ryan Nyambe, Riaan Hanamub, Kennedy Amutenya, Denzil Haoseb, Charles Hambira, Aprocius Petrus, Lubeni Haukongo, and Ivan Kamberipa aim to fortify Namibia’s backline.
Midfielders Petrus Shitembi, Ngero Katua, Marcel Papama, Prins Tjiueza, and Uetuuru Kambato are tasked with controlling the tempo, while forwards Wendell Rudath, Absalom Iimbondi, Peter Shalulile, Deon Hotto, Joslin Kamatuka, and Betuel Muzeu seek to create scoring opportunities.
Tonight’s match serves not only as a test on the field but also as a measure of the team’s cohesion and preparedness for the imminent AFCON challenge, commencing in Ivory Coast on January 13th, 2024.